Humanitarians trial in Greece commenced for two dozen humanitarian workers facing up to 20 years behind bars. After a seven-year wait, they finally went to court on December 4 and 5 on the Greek island of Lesbos. Observers quickly recognized the lack of merit in the case against them.
The defendants were linked to a modest search and rescue organization, Emergency Response Center International, dedicated to saving the lives of asylum seekers, migrants, and refugees attempting the dangerous sea route from Turkey.
Understanding The Allegations Against Humanitarian Workers
The main accusation is that, between 2016 and 2018, the organization operated as a smuggling ring, allegedly facilitating irregular migration, according to an investigation by a senior police detective. The detective confirmed ignorance of the extensive collaboration that the group maintained with the Hellenic Coast Guard.
A representative from the Greek Coast Guard testified that one of the defendants routinely alerted them whenever the group became aware of migrant boats in Greek waters. The group actively coordinated search-and-rescue efforts with the Coast Guard, making its rescue boats vital assets. They even received accolades from the Coast Guard and the European Union border agency, Frontex.
The remaining elements of the case are similarly unsubstantiated. The detective hinted, without evidence, that the group must have obtained information about migrant boats from Turkish smugglers. In reality, this information was typically relayed by relatives of migrants already present in Lesbos or gathered through social media and chat applications by passengers themselves.
Misinterpretation Of Humanitarian Coordination
Suspicion arose over the group’s use of “encrypted communications,” even though they were part of WhatsApp groups organized specifically for coordinating search and rescue, as well as initial support for arrivals. One of these groups, established by the United Nations refugee agency, comprised over 100 members.
The detective posited that defendants expressing concern over the safe arrival of boats via WhatsApp must be smugglers, who would only get paid if the boats reached the shore. However, their worries were focused on the safety of people who could drown, highlighting the humanitarian nature of their actions.
Operational Impact Of Prosecutions On Search And Rescue
Since 2018, aggressive prosecutions have nearly halted the activities of such search and rescue groups, leading to hundreds of migrant fatalities at sea. The hearings are set to continue in mid-January. As one defendant, Sara Mardini, expressed, “I hope that after justice is delivered to us, that will be the closing chapter for Lesbos and the long stories of prosecuting activists who come here.”
Key Takeaways
- Two dozen humanitarian workers face prison for alleged smuggling during aid missions on Lesbos, Greece.
- The defendants are linked to Emergency Response Center International, a search-and-rescue organization.
- The evidence presented by the authorities is largely unsubstantiated, and the authorities ignored cooperation with the Greek Coast Guard.
- The use of WhatsApp and other communication platforms for coordination was misinterpreted as criminal activity.
- These prosecutions have significantly reduced search and rescue operations in the region. As a result, migrant deaths at sea have increased.
This trial in Greece demonstrates how unsupported allegations can endanger humanitarian workers and undermine aid efforts. Without clear legal protections, those saving lives face criminalization, making it essential to prevent misuse of the law against lifesaving missions. Advocacy organizations emphasize the urgent need to defend human rights and operational space for aid workers.
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